Signing of the Declaration of Independence by John Trumbull in U.S. Capitol, detail II. (Image courtesy of the
Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, U.S. Capitol paintings [reproduction number: LC-H8-CT-C01-063 (color corrected film copy slide)].)
Course Highlights
This course features an extensive list of
readings.
Course Description
This course is concerned primarily with the revolutionary origins of American government. Topics covered include: English and American backgrounds of the Revolution; issues and arguments in the Anglo-American conflict; colonial resistance and the beginnings of republicanism; the Revolutionary War; constitution writing for the states and nation; and effects of the American Revolution. Readings emphasize documents from the period--pamphlets, correspondence, the minutes or resolutions of resistance organizations, constitutional documents and debates.